Burglar banged up after break-in at butcher’s shop

£2,000 RAID CAPTURED ON CCTV

A BURGLAR who stole thousands of pounds from a butchers is behind bars after being caught on CCTV.

Paul Kenny, 42, was captured on camera breaking into Nicholson’s Butchers on Park View in Whitley Bay on Wednesday, January 10.

He caused significant damage to an office door before making off with more than £2,000 in cash and a packet of cigarettes.

Officers immediately recognised Kenny from the CCTV footage when he was stopped on the street at a later date.

Kenny, of Gateshead, was also charged for being in possession of a knife and a small amount of cocaine.

He has been jailed for 22 months and was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £140.

Northumbria Police launched an investigation into the increase in business break-ins around Whitley Bay and North Shields.

Neighbourhood Inspector for North Shields and Whitley Bay Michelle Caisley said: “After seeing an increase in commercial burglary offences back in Janu- Paul Kenny who has been jailed for a burglary at a butchers ary we quickly put plans in place to tackle this issue head on.

“This offender forced his way into the premises showing complete disregard for the effect this would have on a local business owner.

“Thanks to the proactive approach from our officers, he is now behind bars.”

For advice on how to keep your business and property safe, visit www.northumbria.police.uk/advice_and_information/crime_prevention.